---
description: Learn what are the benefits of IBM Cognos Analytics vs Looker for the UK businesses. Our free platform provides a detailed side-by-side comparison that will help you learn more about each of these software.
image: https://gdm-localsites-assets-gfprod.imgix.net/images/getapp/og_logo-94fd2a03a6c7a0e54fc0c9e21a1c0ce9.png
title: Compare IBM Cognos Analytics vs Looker | GetApp UK 2026
---

Breadcrumb: [Home](/) > [Business Intelligence Platform](/directory/318/business-intelligence/software) > [IBM Cognos Analytics \<span\>vs\</span\> Looker](https://www.getapp.co.uk/compare/9919/91545/ibm-cognos-analytics/vs/looker)

# Compare IBM Cognos Analytics vs Looker

Canonical: https://www.getapp.co.uk/compare/9919/91545/ibm-cognos-analytics/vs/looker

> Detailed comparison between IBM Cognos Analytics and Looker. Check ratings, reviews, pricing, and features to make the best decision for your business.

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## At a Glance

| Metric | IBM Cognos Analytics | Looker |
| **Overall rating** | 4.2/5 | 4.5/5 |
| **Total Reviews** | 137 | 282 |
| **Starting Price** | US$10.60 | US$2,000.00 |
| **Free Trial** | Yes | Yes |
| **Free Version** | No | No |
| **Deployment** | Cloud, SaaS, Web-based | Cloud, SaaS, Web-based, Mac (Desktop), Windows (Desktop), Windows (On-Premise), Linux (On-Premise), Android (Mobile), iPhone (Mobile) |
| **Support** | FAQs/Forum, Knowledge Base | Email/Help Desk, FAQs/Forum, Knowledge Base, Chat |
| **Training** | Webinars, Videos | In Person, Live Online, Webinars, Documentation, Videos |

## Key features

### IBM Cognos Analytics

- API
- Activity Tracking
- Ad hoc Reporting
- Collaboration Tools
- Dashboard
- Financial Reporting
- Functions/Calculations
- High Volume Processing
- Interactive Reports
- KPI Monitoring
- Key Performance Indicators
- Marketing Reports
- Performance Metrics
- Private Dashboards
- Real-Time Analytics
- Real-Time Data
- Reporting/Analytics
- Search/Filter
- Self Service Data Preparation
- Single Sign On

### Looker

- API
- Activity Tracking
- Ad hoc Reporting
- Collaboration Tools
- Dashboard
- Financial Reporting
- Functions/Calculations
- High Volume Processing
- Interactive Reports
- KPI Monitoring
- Key Performance Indicators
- Marketing Reports
- Performance Metrics
- Private Dashboards
- Real-Time Analytics
- Real-Time Data
- Reporting/Analytics
- Search/Filter
- Self Service Data Preparation
- Single Sign On

## Links

- [View IBM Cognos Analytics Profile](https://www.getapp.co.uk/software/9919/ibm-cognos-analytics)
- [View Looker Profile](https://www.getapp.co.uk/software/91545/looker)
- [View Original Comparison](https://www.getapp.co.uk/compare/9919/91545/ibm-cognos-analytics/vs/looker)

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